Iran attacks Kuwait, Israel after Trump sets deadline for deal

Analysts suggest that Donald Trump's plan to seize Iran's Kharg Island, a crucial oil hub handling 90% of Iran's crude shipments, carries significant risks due to its strategic location in the Persian Gulf. Kharg Island is located 33km off the Iranian mainland, placing it within range of Iranian missiles and drones, and 660km from the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration is considering this action to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait, which has been effectively shut in response to US-Israeli strikes that began on February 28. Trump's recent speech hinted at further strikes and the nearing completion of "Operation Epic Fury," raising concerns about a potential US seizure of Kharg Island amidst increasing American troop presence in the region. Trump has repeatedly threatened to seize the island since the start of the US-Israeli military campaign.

Yemen's Houthis have entered the regional conflict between Iran and its enemies, the US and Israel, with a confirmed attack on Israel in March 2026. While the Houthis align with Iran's broader strategy as part of the "Axis of Resistance," they maintain a degree of independence in their decision-making. Iran provides support, expertise, and political cover, but the Houthis prioritize their domestic objectives in Yemen, where they control Sanaa and much of the northwest. This allows them to leverage regional escalations to serve their own project within Yemen, without directly mirroring the actions of other Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah. The Houthis' relationship with Iran is an unequal partnership that allows them to act in their own interests.

Recent Iranian drone attacks have caused damage and casualties in multiple countries. In the UAE, shrapnel from an intercepted drone killed a Bangladeshi national in Fujairah. Kuwait's international airport experienced a large fire after fuel tanks were hit by Iranian drones, though no injuries were reported. Bahrain also reported a fire at an undisclosed company facility due to what they termed "Iranian aggression." Separately, a tanker near Doha, Qatar, was hit by a projectile, causing hull damage, and Qatar claims three cruise missiles were launched from Iran, one of which struck the oil tanker. These incidents occurred amidst ongoing tensions between the United States-Israel and Iran.

On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, Iran launched attacks in the Gulf region, hitting a tanker off the coast of Qatar and Kuwait International Airport. Simultaneously, Israel conducted an attack in Beirut, Lebanon, resulting in five fatalities. The attacks occurred amidst escalating tensions, with Iran acknowledging ongoing conflict with its Gulf Arab neighbors. The strikes in Beirut caused significant damage, requiring rescue operations and firefighting efforts. Sirens sounded in Bnei Brak, Israel, as rescue teams and residents sought shelter from Iranian missile strikes. The reasons behind the attacks remain unclear.

Israel has intensified its attacks on Lebanon this week, striking areas beyond Hezbollah's control, including a residential neighborhood north of Beirut and the Jnah neighborhood in the capital. The Israeli military claims it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure and killed senior commanders in Beirut. Strikes also continued in Hezbollah strongholds in southern Beirut and southern Lebanon. A health facility in the south was hit, killing a paramedic, and a building near Beirut's airport was destroyed after evacuation. These attacks follow Hezbollah's involvement in the regional conflict since March 2, after attacks on its ally Iran. The Lebanese army has withdrawn from some southern positions after an Israeli strike killed a soldier.

Donald Trump has expressed interest in seizing Iranian oil, specifically targeting Kharg Island, a key export hub. This statement, made amidst ongoing conflict between the US and Iran, has drawn criticism and raised questions about the true motives behind the war. Experts suggest Trump's desire reflects a belief in "fossil-fuel imperialism," where the US is entitled to resources it desires. Trump has threatened to obliterate Iran's energy infrastructure, including Kharg Island, if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened and a peace deal reached quickly. Iran has attacked a crude oil tanker anchored at Dubai port. Trump is expected to provide an update on the Iran war on Wednesday.

A Kuwaiti oil tanker anchored at Dubai port was struck by an Iranian drone, causing a fire and damage to the vessel's hull. The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, hours after former President Trump threatened to target Iran's energy infrastructure if it didn't open the Strait of Hormuz. No injuries were reported, and the fire was quickly extinguished. The attack is the latest in a series of strikes on merchant vessels in the region. The US has accused Iran of using diplomacy as a cover for further attacks, while continuing to give mixed messages about ending the war that the US started together with Israel. The Philippines, heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil imports, is particularly vulnerable to economic shocks resulting from the conflict.

On day 32 of the US-Israeli attacks on Iran, air strikes continue in Tehran and Isfahan. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that US war objectives would be achieved in weeks, while communication with Tehran continues through intermediaries. President Trump threatened to destroy Iran's oil export hub and energy infrastructure if a deal isn't reached soon. Iran's parliament approved tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, effectively closed by the war, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed the death of its naval commander in an Israeli strike. Iran also launched its 87th regional attack in a month, signaling continued naval strength despite US claims.

Several Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are reportedly urging President Trump to prolong the US-led military campaign against Iran. These nations believe Iran has not been sufficiently weakened and see an opportunity to cripple the current Iranian leadership. Officials from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain have privately communicated their desire for the military operation to continue until significant changes occur in Iranian leadership or behavior. This push comes as Trump publicly alternates between claiming Iran is ready to negotiate and threatening further escalation, despite struggling to gain domestic support for the war. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and destabilized the global economy.

European officials report that Iran is pressuring the Houthi rebels in Yemen to prepare for renewed attacks on Red Sea shipping. This action is reportedly contingent on further escalation by the US against Iran. Houthi leaders are considering more aggressive actions after launching ballistic missiles at Israel. Internal divisions exist within the Houthi leadership regarding the extent of aggression. While the Houthis announced they would continue military operations until US-Israeli attacks on Iran and its proxies cease, they did not explicitly state they would target Red Sea vessels. US and Saudi Arabian officials believe the Houthis currently aim to avoid further escalation and attacks on American and Saudi assets.

Experts warn that President Trump's threat to seize Iran's Kharg Island, the hub of 90% of its oil exports, carries significant risks. Military analysts suggest a naval blockade might be a better option to pressure Iran. Seizing the island could escalate the ongoing conflict, prompting retaliation from Iran and its proxies, potentially disrupting global energy supplies. Experts highlight the difficulty of securing and holding the island, which is close to the Iranian mainland and vulnerable to attack. While Trump faces pressure to end the month-long conflict, analysts caution that seizing Kharg Island may not force Iran to capitulate and could endanger American troops.

In a March 31, 2026, interview with Al Jazeera, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio detailed the United States' stance on Iran. Rubio stated that US objectives regarding Iran would be achieved "within weeks, not months." He revealed that discussions between Iranian parties and the US were ongoing, primarily through intermediaries. Rubio warned that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened following the conclusion of a military operation. He also asserted that Iran must verifiably abandon any nuclear weapons aspirations. The interview provides insight into the US's strategy and timeline concerning Iran.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump criticized NATO allies, specifically France, Spain, and the UK, in a series of online posts. The attacks focused on their involvement in securing the Strait of Hormuz. The criticism comes amidst mounting pressure regarding security in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. Al Jazeera's Alan Fisher reported on the significance of Trump's remarks and their potential implications for US relations with these NATO members. The reason for the attacks was not explicitly stated in the provided information.

In March 2026, amidst a month-long war with Iran that disrupted global markets and increased energy prices, former US President Donald Trump urged countries to either purchase oil from the United States or take it from the Strait of Hormuz. Trump criticized nations like the United Kingdom and France for not supporting US-Israeli strikes against Iran. He suggested these countries, facing jet fuel shortages due to the Strait's closure, should assert themselves and seize oil, implying the US would no longer provide assistance. Trump also cited France's refusal to allow military supply flights to Israel as further justification for his stance. His statements were made via a Truth Social post.

In a March 30, 2026 interview with Al Jazeera, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the war on Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, and regional issues with journalist Hashem Ahelbarra. The exclusive interview covered key aspects of the ongoing conflict. Rubio addressed the geopolitical significance of the Strait of Hormuz in relation to the war. The discussion also focused on the broader implications of the conflict for the wider region. The interview provided insights into the US perspective on these critical matters.

Iran has accused the United States of secretly planning a ground assault while publicly seeking negotiations, amidst ongoing tensions. This accusation comes as the conflict, which has already caused significant global energy disruption, enters its second month. President Trump stated in an interview that he would prefer to seize Iranian oil and suggested that taking Kharg Island, a crucial Iranian export hub, would be easy. The situation is developing, and the potential seizure of Iranian crude oil is significant for Cuba, which is currently experiencing severe fuel shortages due to a lack of imports. Cuba's president has stated that the country has not received any oil imports for three months.

In March 2026, Yemen's Houthi group (Ansar Allah) launched missiles towards Israel, escalating regional tensions. This action, in support of Iran, fulfills a previous threat to join the conflict. The Houthis' involvement raises concerns about potential attacks on Red Sea shipping, which could further disrupt global trade already impacted by Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz. Experts are now considering the likelihood and nature of potential retaliation from Israel and the United States. The situation is being analyzed by figures such as Hisham Al-Omeisy, H A Hellyer, and Michael Mulroy to determine the broader implications for the region.

Amidst increased US military presence in the Middle East, Iran alleges that the US is secretly planning a ground assault, despite publicly discussing ceasefire talks. Former President Trump has made statements threatening Iran's energy infrastructure, suggesting the US could seize Iranian oil and its Kharg Island export hub. He also claimed to be in talks with a new "reasonable regime" in Iran. The situation is further complicated by the involvement of Yemen's Houthi forces, raising concerns about potential damage to the global economy. Jonathan Freedland discusses these developments on Politics Weekly America, available on YouTube and as a podcast.

In an interview with Al Jazeera on March 30, 2026, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that regional stability hinges on dismantling Iran's capacity to launch missiles and drones. Rubio asserted that Iran has utilized these weapons to attack neighboring countries' infrastructure and civilian populations. He emphasized the necessity of eliminating this capability to ensure peace and security in the region. The interview focused on the perceived threat posed by Iran's missile and drone program and its impact on neighboring nations. Rubio's statement highlights the US government's stance on addressing Iran's military capabilities.

Donald Trump threatened to "obliterate" Iran's energy grid and water plants if a ceasefire is not reached "shortly" in the ongoing conflict instigated by the US and Israel. This threat, made via social media, includes targeting Kharg Island, a major oil export facility. Trump claims to be in "serious discussions" with a "more reasonable regime" in Tehran to reach a deal, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has described US peace proposals as "excessive" and acknowledged receiving a 15-point proposal from the Trump administration after talks with other nations. The White House indicated Trump would seek financial assistance from Arab countries to cover the war costs, while also expressing a preference to "take the oil in Iran," potentially requiring a US troop seizure of Kharg Island.

The article discusses the possibility of the U.S. seizing Iran's Kharg Island, its main oil export terminal, located in the northern Gulf. President Trump has indicated he may send troops to take control of the island, through which 90% of Iran's oil exports pass. The potential operation aims to pressure Iran into relinquishing control of the Strait of Hormuz and conceding to U.S. demands. The U.S. has nearly 5,000 Marines and 2,000 paratroopers in the region, who could potentially be used in an airborne or amphibious assault. However, Iran has reinforced its defenses on Kharg Island and warned of retaliation, making any such operation highly risky.

According to U.S., Gulf, and Israeli officials, Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are privately lobbying President Trump to persist in the war against Iran. These allies believe that the month-long U.S.-led bombing campaign has not sufficiently weakened Tehran. The Gulf states initially expressed discontent over the lack of advance notice regarding the U.S.-Israeli attack. They also felt the U.S. had previously disregarded their warnings concerning the war. The Gulf allies are advocating for continued military action to achieve a more decisive defeat of Iran. The events described in the article are dated in March of 2026.

As Donald Trump plans a trip to China in May, a surge in US troops in the Middle East suggests a potential for a drawn-out, low-intensity conflict with Iran. Recent reports indicate the US has deployed several hundred Army Rangers and Navy Seals to the region, bringing the total number of American troops to over 50,000. This deployment provides Trump with military options, such as securing the Strait of Hormuz, seizing Kharg Island, or extracting enriched uranium from Iran. Analysts believe a full-scale US ground invasion of Iran is unlikely, suggesting the US is trying to avoid a costly, protracted war. The troop increase and potential actions are viewed in the context of Trump's upcoming visit to China.

One month after the US and Israel began military operations against Iran on February 28, 2026, Yemen's Houthi rebels have opened a new front by attacking Israel. The Houthis launched missile and drone attacks on Israel, which were reportedly intercepted, pledging further action in support of allies. This escalation raises concerns about the conflict spiraling out of control, as Iran has already disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis' involvement also threatens to disrupt Red Sea traffic via the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, potentially impacting Israeli trade. The US anticipates concluding its military operations against Iran within weeks, even as further deployments arrive in the region.

Houthi rebels in Yemen, backed by Iran, launched missile attacks on Israel on Saturday, marking their entry into the ongoing Middle East conflict. The Houthis claimed to target sensitive Israeli military sites, while Israel reported intercepting a missile. This action raises concerns about potential disruptions to global shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait off the Red Sea, a crucial passage for approximately 12% of global trade. The Houthis, controlling much of northern Yemen, are a key part of Iran's "Axis of Resistance," and their involvement could exacerbate the existing tensions and further impact international trade routes. The Israeli military stated they are preparing for a multifront war.

The Houthis in Yemen, backed by Iran, have entered the conflict, raising concerns about potential disruptions to Red Sea shipping. The Houthis control a significant portion of Yemen and possess the capability to target the Bab al-Mandab strait, a crucial waterway. While a ceasefire mediated by Oman had halted Houthi attacks on US shipping since May 2025, attacks on Israel continued. The extent of Houthi involvement, whether limited missile strikes or a full closure of the Red Sea, remains to be seen. The Bab al-Mandab strait has always been vulnerable to Houthi attacks, and major carriers have been slow to resume traffic through the Red Sea.

Reports indicate the Pentagon is preparing options for potential ground operations in Iran, including special forces raids or infantry deployments. This comes as the US increases its military presence in the Middle East, with an additional 3,500 troops arriving recently, joining the roughly 50,000 already stationed in the region. Potential objectives for military action could include securing the Strait of Hormuz, seizing Iranian uranium, or targeting oil facilities. Lawmakers are debating the necessity and scope of any potential ground involvement, with Senator Lankford emphasizing the need for clear objectives and a defined exit strategy. The White House stated that the Pentagon's preparations are for optionality and do not indicate a presidential decision has been made.

The Pentagon is reportedly preparing plans for weeks of limited ground operations in Iran, potentially including raids on Kharg Island and coastal sites near the Strait of Hormuz. According to The Washington Post, the plans involve special operations and conventional infantry troops, but fall short of a full-scale invasion. These preparations come as the war in Iran stretches into its fifth week, with the US deploying additional Marines and soldiers to the Middle East, including approximately 3,500 soldiers who recently arrived on the USS Tripoli. Discussions within the administration have considered seizing Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub, and raiding coastal areas to destroy weapons targeting commercial and military shipping. While the Pentagon is preparing options, it remains uncertain whether President Trump will approve any of these plans.

Iranian strikes targeted Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) facilities on Saturday, injuring two Alba employees and causing significant damage to EGA's site. The attacks are part of a broader Iranian assault on Gulf economic infrastructure, including oil refineries, ports, and shipping lanes. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps claimed responsibility, citing retaliation for attacks on Iranian steel plants with ties to US military and aeronautics firms. The Strait of Hormuz closure, due to the US-Israeli war on Iran, has already disrupted shipments from Gulf aluminium producers, who account for approximately 9% of global supply. Alba operates the world's largest single-site smelter, while EGA is the Middle East's largest aluminium producer.

Chinese analysts believe the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, now in its second month, is unlikely to be prolonged despite escalating tensions. The conflict has expanded geographically, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen firing missiles at Israel, one of which was intercepted. The Houthis operate near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping lane for Eurasian trade. Analysts warn that Houthi obstruction of this strait could significantly impact the global economy and potentially cause another increase in oil prices, which have already risen. The Houthi missile attack was reportedly issued as a warning.

Yemen's Houthi rebels launched a barrage of ballistic missiles targeting "sensitive Israeli military sites" in southern Israel on Saturday, marking their first direct strikes since the US-Israeli war on Iran began. Houthi military spokesperson Brigadier-General Yahya Saree announced the attack, stating it would continue until objectives are achieved and aggression against the resistance ceases. The Israeli military reported intercepting one missile, with sirens sounding in Beersheba and near Israel's nuclear research center. The Houthis, who have controlled Yemen's capital since 2014, had previously stayed out of the conflict, though they disrupted Red Sea shipping during the Israel-Hamas war. This attack signals a potential escalation of the broader regional conflict.

The conflict between the US-Israeli alliance and Iran has escalated with the entry of Houthi forces from Yemen, who launched missile attacks on Israeli military sites. This expansion threatens key maritime routes like the Bab al-Mandab strait, potentially amplifying the war's impact on the global economy. While Israel claims to have intercepted one missile, the Houthis vow to continue operations until aggression ceases. A meeting of Middle Eastern powers in Pakistan aims to find a regional solution, but excludes the warring parties. Attacks have also been reported on a Saudi airbase and Kuwait airport, raising concerns about further regional involvement, including potential direct intervention by Saudi Arabia if its Red Sea oil export route is threatened.

The Houthi movement in Yemen, backed by Iran, poses a significant threat to Red Sea shipping lanes. While their missile attacks on Israel have been limited, the Houthis' potential targeting of vessels in the Bab al-Mandab strait could severely disrupt global trade and energy supplies. This action, taken in support of Hamas, risks escalating tensions and further damaging the global economy, especially if coupled with Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis have previously targeted Gulf Arab neighbors and faced retaliatory strikes. Increased Houthi involvement could reignite Yemen's internal conflict and broaden the ongoing regional war. The extent of the Houthis' future actions remains uncertain.

The Houthis in Yemen warned they are prepared to militarily intervene if other countries join the US and Israel in a war against Iran, or if the Red Sea is used to attack Iran. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree stated their "fingers are on the trigger" for direct military intervention under those circumstances. This warning raises concerns about a broader regional conflict, given the Houthis' ability to strike targets and disrupt shipping lanes. The Houthis have controlled much of Yemen since 2014 and have previously targeted vessels in the Red Sea and Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. While a truce was agreed upon in May, this new statement suggests a potential shift in Houthi involvement in the region.

In a news report published on March 27, 2026, the Houthis warned they are prepared for direct military intervention in the US-Israeli war on Iran. The Houthis stated that their "fingers are on the trigger," indicating a readiness to engage in the conflict. The report specifies that the Houthis have laid out conditions that would prompt their involvement in the war. The exact nature of these conditions was not detailed in the provided information, but the statement signals a potential escalation of the conflict in the Middle East. The Houthis' warning suggests a willingness to take military action depending on unfolding circumstances related to the US-Israeli war on Iran.

According to an intelligence source, Saudi Arabia is urging the United States to intensify its attacks on Iran, viewing the current US-Israeli campaign as a crucial opportunity to reshape the Middle East. While not currently involved militarily in the conflict that began in late February, Saudi Arabia is considering direct intervention if peace efforts fail and Iran continues its attacks. Recent Iranian drone strikes, including one targeting an oil refinery in Yanbu on the Red Sea coast, have heightened tensions. Despite possessing a pipeline to transport oil via the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia faces potential threats to its economic lifeline and from Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. Saudi Arabia claims it is calibrating its response and preparing for potential escalation, while maintaining that it has not been pushing for war.

Yemenis fear potential economic consequences as they could be drawn into the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. While Iran's allies, such as Hezbollah, are actively involved, the Iran-allied Houthis in Yemen have not yet engaged. However, the Houthis possess the capability to target shipping in the Red Sea, and an Iranian official suggested they could destabilize the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait if the U.S. attacks Iranian oil facilities. Analysts warn that Houthi involvement, such as blockading Bab al-Mandeb, would devastate Yemen economically and humanitarianly, and could reignite Yemen's internal conflict. Abdulsalam Mohammed suggests the Houthis would likely target energy facilities and ports in Gulf countries.